When I was very young I was brought to a psychologists because I would throw food away. My mom thought I was anorexic. I have always been obsessed with body image. Although my BMI is 21.1, I feel like I'm overweight.... a lot. I have taken diet pills, tried extreme diets and even starvation. I feel like I'm never good enough. Lately it's getting worst. I have periods of self-starvation (1 week long) and other times I have extreme binges were I can't stop myself. I have never made myself throw up (nothing worked). I have cut myself several times because of guilt and shame over eating. My question is what should I do? I'm afraid to ask for help because I'm afraid of what people will think of me. I don't want people to think I'm looking for attention. And a lot of people are in worse condition (e.g. people that are underweight). I don't think it's fair for me to ask for help when some people need it more than I do.

Tel-jeunes’ answer

Hello anonymous222134,

Thank you for confiding yourself to us in your time of need.

Body image is a preoccupation for many individuals. In a society where the importance of one’s appearances is crucial, it can be hard to find comfort when looking at ourselves in the mirror. We can either accept our body the way it is and make the most of it or we can try to constantly change and monitor our bodies’ size and weight to meet up with societies standards. The first option may take some time and effort, but the results are long term and you feel better about yourself. The second option can be very unhealthy and to some extent unrealistic. Did you know that most people in the media our photoshopped and hardly look that way in real life? What option do you choose?

Now, I know you think you don't deserve help, but that's not true. You already came to us for help, now you just need to make that extra step. I'm very concerned with your health as those extreme diets can cause serious health issues. Self-mutilation is also very dangerous and leave permanent damage. Most people use self-mutilation because they want stop suffering. Is that why you do it anonymous222134? Although it may help for a moment to displace the hurt, but it doesn't make it go away. Plus, it's a huge risk to your safety and health. It's important to get help these situations, so that we don't need to face it alone.

Here are a few places where you can get help. ANEB is specifically helpful with the situation your are going through right now. You can call them at 1 800 630-0907. You can also call us at 1800-263-2266 if you ever need to talk to someone. We are available 24/7 to listen to you without judgment. You can also go to your nearest CLSC to ask for help. Please don't stay alone with your situation because you do deserve the help you are seeking.